If your dog strays while you're traveling

By Lori Mohr-Corrigan
Copyright 1999, Lori Mohr-Corrigan. Used with permission.

As careful as you might be, there still may come a day when your dog accidentally gets out on his own while you're on the road together. To say it will never happen to you is to say that accidents don't happen -- and they do.

Taking the right precautions before your dog escapes will help to speed his recovery:

Identification tags. The most basic and lifesaving item on any dog is information about his owners. If your dog doesn't have current tags telling of where he lives, how will his rescuers reach you? They may not have the time, patience or facilities to foster him until ads are placed and posters are hung. Make it easy on everyone -- especially the dog -- by placing current identification tags on the collar.

Alternate identification. While tagging is essential, there are times when collars are pulled off. When this happens, even the best intentions won't find your dog. Consider tattoos and/or microchip implants in addition to collar tags.

License. Legally, every dog is required to be licensed, but from a lost dog's point of view, it may buy him a few more days if his straying lands him in the pound. On many occasions, dogs who are licensed are held longer than those who are not, if the shelter has the room.

Spay or neuter. The reason for this is twofold: Altering your dog will decrease his desire to roam; and whether male or female, if an escape is made, no unwanted puppies will become the end result.

Vaccinations. There are many illnesses floating around on the streets, and if your dog gets out on his own, he'll have a better chance of fighting them off if he is current on his vaccinations.

As well, to keep your dog from bolting into the night, keep him inside on noisy or boisterous occasions, such as Halloween, the Fourth of July, New Year's Eve and during thunderstorms.